The Weekenders (TV pilot)

The Weekenders (TV pilot) refers to an unsold television pilot created by Bill Burnett and produced by Walt Disney Television Animation in 1997. It served as the basis for the Disney animated television series The Weekenders, which aired from 2000 to 2004. The pilot, though never officially broadcast, is notable for establishing the core premise, characters, and visual style that would define the series.

The pilot's narrative revolves around the adventures of four middle school friends – Tino, Lor, Carver, and Tish – as they navigate the social landscape and various activities that fill their weekend. The pilot would have introduced their distinct personalities: Tino's role as the de facto leader and strategist, Lor's fashionable sensibilities and social awareness, Carver's laid-back demeanor and skateboarding skills, and Tish's intellectual curiosity and love for the arts.

Key differences exist between the pilot and the subsequent television series. Character designs were notably different in the pilot, with a more angular and somewhat less refined appearance. Voice actors also differed; for instance, Tino Tonitini was voiced by Josh Keaton in the pilot, while Jason Marsden voiced the character for the series run. Storylines, character development, and some secondary characters evolved and changed between the pilot and the broadcast series. The animation style was also further polished for the series.

Despite not airing, the pilot plays a crucial role in understanding the origins of The Weekenders and serves as a point of comparison for fans interested in the show's development. The existence of the pilot highlights the iterative process of television animation production, showcasing the changes and refinements made before a show reaches its final form.